Syracuse promoter Chuck Chao sends along an update with the nice package of shows he's bringing to town in November and December. He's spreading the gigs around, as you'll read:

Al & the Transamericans headline with Villians Trust opening, at 9 p.m. Nov. 15 at the Lost Horizon. Tickets are $12 in advance, available at Sound Garden in Armory Square, $15 the day of the show. It's an 18-and-over gig. Al is Al Schnier, guitarist, songwriter and singer from popular national jam band moe. Schnier also has posted a brand new site for his record company, Basemental Records. "This Day and Age" will be released soon, and all pre-orders will be signed by Schnier, up to 1,000 copies. Villians Trust, by the way, is the band that includes former Syracuse University lacrosse star Mikey Powell.

Hard rockers Candlebox play at 9 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Lost Horizon. Opener will be announced. Tickets are $22 in advance, available at Sound Garden as well as ticketmaster, $25 the day of the show.

Vintage rockers Hot Tuna perform at 9 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Westcott Theater. There are a limited number of general admission seats available, at $36. Standing room tickets are $28. It's an all-ages show.